Karen Devereaux
Aurora,IL
Summary
Qualified Reading Specialist with background in developing and implementing effective reading programs. Adept at diagnosing reading difficulties and creating individualized strategies that enhance student literacy. Demonstrated ability to foster love for reading and improve student outcomes through innovative teaching techniques and collaborative efforts.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Reading Specialist
Kaneland Harter Middle School
08.2014 - 08.2022
- Analyzed data trends to identify areas of need and inform instructional decision-making processes related to reading interventions.
- Implemented research-based instructional practices to improve overall reading proficiency among students.
- Provided ongoing support for struggling readers by offering one-on-one tutoring sessions and small group instruction.
- Built positive and productive relationships with teachers to drive improvements to reading programs.
- Served as a resource for educators by providing professional development workshops on best practices in literacy instruction.
- Evaluated student progress through regular assessments, adjusting instruction as needed to optimize growth.
- Performed assessments and analyzed results to spot students in need of further help.
- Increased student engagement through the use of interactive reading materials and technology integration.
- Cultivated a supportive learning environment that encouraged students to take risks and develop confidence in their reading abilities.
- Supported English Language Learners by adapting instructional materials and employing culturally responsive teaching practices.
- Boosted reading fluency through consistent, focused practice and personalized feedback.
- Adapted reading materials and strategies to meet diverse needs of learners, including those with special education requirements.
- Improved student reading comprehension levels with development and implementation of targeted literacy intervention program.
K-5 Reading Specialist
Kaneland Blackberry Creek Elementary
08.2004 - 08.2014
- Analyzed data trends to identify areas of need and inform instructional decision-making processes related to reading interventions.
- Implemented research-based instructional practices to improve overall reading proficiency among students.
- Provided ongoing support for struggling readers by offering one-on-one tutoring sessions and small group instruction.
- Built positive and productive relationships with teachers to drive improvements to reading programs.
- Evaluated student progress through regular assessments, adjusting instruction as needed to optimize growth.
- Enhanced reading comprehension by implementing targeted literacy interventions and strategies.
- Contributed to the development of school-wide literacy initiatives aimed at improving achievement for all students.
- Mentored new teachers in literacy instruction methodologies, sharing expertise and best practices for successful outcomes.
- Developed goals and realistic plans for achieving each target.
- Performed assessments and analyzed results to spot students in need of further help.
- Wrote and delivered customized instruction to individual students and groups.
- Established positive relationships with families, collaborating on strategies to support at-home literacy development efforts.
- Collaborated with teachers to ensure consistent implementation of reading interventions across all subject areas.
- Developed individualized learning plans for diverse learners, addressing specific literacy needs and goals.
Early Intervention Reading Specialist
Kaneland John Shields Elementary
08.2001 - 08.2004
- Implemented research-based instructional approaches to address diverse learning styles and abilities in the classroom.
- Integrated multisensory teaching methods into daily lessons, engaging students in active learning experiences.
- Promoted a culture of collaboration within the school community by participating in cross-functional teams addressing literacy concerns.
- Incorporated a variety of instructional strategies to support reading fluency, building student confidence and motivation for continued learning.
- Assessed students'' progress regularly through various assessments, adjusting instructional techniques as needed.
- Established a strong foundation in phonics and phonemic awareness skills through systematic instruction.
- Increased parental involvement by organizing workshops and providing resources on early reading interventions at home.
- Fostered a positive learning environment by building strong rapport with students, parents, and colleagues.
- Utilized data-driven decision making for continuous improvement of early intervention programs, enhancing overall effectiveness.
- Used state and district assessments to determine student abilities and track academic progress.
- Performed assessments and analyzed results to spot students in need of further help.
First Grade Classroom Teacher
Kaneland John Shields Elementary
08.1994 - 08.2001
- Implemented differentiated instruction techniques to accommodate diverse learning styles and needs within the classroom.
- Tailored lesson plans to meet district standards while addressing unique challenges faced by first-grade learners.
- Collaborated with colleagues to share best practices, develop interdisciplinary units, and provide an enriching educational experience for students.
- Developed students'' critical thinking skills through engaging problem-solving tasks.
- Promoted a positive learning environment by establishing clear expectations, enforcing rules consistently, and modeling respect for all individuals.
- Continuously updated teaching methods through professional development opportunities and staying informed about current educational research and trends.
- Enhanced classroom atmosphere by incorporating visual aids, interactive tools, and hands-on learning experiences.
- Established open communication and positive relationships with students, parents, peers, and administrative staff.
- Provided warm, supportive environment for developing academic, social, and emotional growth.
Education
Master of Science - Reading Specialist
Northern Illinois University
Dekalb, IL06-2001
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education K-9
Aurora University
Aurora, IL06-1994
Skills
- Reading assessment
- Progress monitoring
- Intervention planning
- Small group instruction
- Materials preparation
- Vocabulary expansion
- Orton gillingham expertise
- Fluency development
- Student engagement
- Response to intervention
- Comprehension Techniques
Timeline
Reading Specialist
Kaneland Harter Middle School
08.2014 - 08.2022
K-5 Reading Specialist
Kaneland Blackberry Creek Elementary
08.2004 - 08.2014
Early Intervention Reading Specialist
Kaneland John Shields Elementary
08.2001 - 08.2004
First Grade Classroom Teacher
Kaneland John Shields Elementary
08.1994 - 08.2001
Master of Science - Reading Specialist
Northern Illinois University
Bachelor of Science - Elementary Education K-9
Aurora University
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